HC Deb 10 May 2001 vol 368 cc278-9W
24. Dr. Julian Lewis

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what account he will take of public opinion in making a recommendation to replace the pound with the European single currency. [159903]

Miss Melanie Johnson

The determining factor underpinning any Government decision on membership of the single currency is the national economic interest and whether the economic case for joining is clear and unambiguous. The Government believe that, if a decision to recommend joining is taken by the Government, it should be put to a vote in Parliament, and then to a referendum of the British people.

25. Mr. Evans

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent change there has been to his policy on British participation in the European single currency. [159905]

Miss Melanie Johnson

The Government's policy on membership of the single currency remains as set out by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in October 1997, and restated by the Prime Minister in February 1999. The determining factor underpinning any Government decision on membership of the single currency is the national economic interest and whether the economic case for joining is clear and unambiguous.

Mr. Gill

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received from farming organisations about the appropriate exchange rate for joining the single European currency. [159891]

Mr. Andrew Smith

The Chancellor meets representatives from the farming industry to discuss a wide range of issues.